Leviticus 19:14

KJV

Thou shalt not curse the deaf, nor put a stumblingblock before the blind, but shalt fear thy God: I [am] the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thou shalt not curse {H7043} the deaf {H2795}, nor put {H5414} a stumblingblock {H4383} before {H6440} the blind {H5787}, but shalt fear {H3372} thy God {H430}: I am the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"'Do not speak a curse against a deaf person or place an obstacle in the way of a blind person; rather, fear your God; I am ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

You must not curse the deaf or place a stumbling block before the blind, but you shall fear your God. I am the LORD.

American Standard Version

Thou shalt not curse the deaf, nor put a stumblingblock before the blind; but thou shalt fear thy God: I am Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 19:14 is a profound divine mandate within the Holiness Code, prohibiting the cursing of the deaf and the placing of stumbling blocks before the blind. This command extends beyond mere physical acts, delving into the realm of hidden intentions and private malice, underscoring God's absolute concern for the vulnerable and His expectation of integrity from His people. The ultimate motivation for such righteous conduct is a deep reverence for God, who sees all and holds His covenant people accountable.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 19:14 is nestled within the comprehensive "Holiness Code" (chapters 17-26), a pivotal section of the book of Leviticus that transitions from ritual purity to ethical and moral purity. This chapter, in particular, is a practical exposition of what it means for Israel to be holy, as commanded in [Leviticus 19:2](/leviticus/19-2 "Leviticus 19:2 - Be Holy, for I Am Holy"). It follows a series of laws concerning social justice, such as leaving gleanings for the poor and sojourner ([Leviticus 19:9-10](/leviticus/19-9-10 "Leviticus 19:9-10 - Gleanings for the Poor")), prohibitions against stealing and lying ([Leviticus 19:11](/leviticus/19-11 "Leviticus 19:11 - Do Not Steal or Lie")), and the timely payment of wages ([Leviticus 19:13](/leviticus/19-13 "Leviticus 19:13 - Do Not Oppress Your Neighbor")). Verse 14 specifically targets the most vulnerable, setting a high standard for ethical conduct that anticipates the broader command to [love one's neighbor as oneself](/leviticus/19-18 "Leviticus 19:18 - Love Your Neighbor as Yourself") found later in the same chapter.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern societies, individuals with physical disabilities like deafness or blindness were often marginalized and highly susceptible to exploitation. There were no social safety nets or legal protections as we understand them today. Cursing the deaf was particularly insidious because the victim could not hear the insult and therefore could not respond or seek justice. Similarly, placing an obstacle before the blind was a malicious act that could be done secretly, causing harm without immediate identification of the perpetrator. This command highlights God's unique concern for those who lack the means to defend themselves or even perceive the injustice being perpetrated against them. It reveals a divine legal system that transcends human perception and accountability, emphasizing that God's law reaches into the hidden corners of human intent and action, holding individuals accountable even for sins committed in secret.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Curse (אָלַל, _'alal'_):** This Hebrew verb means to treat with contempt, to revile, or to make light of. In this context, it refers to uttering malicious words or imprecations against someone. The specific mention of the "deaf" highlights the insidious nature of the sin: the victim cannot hear the curse, making it a hidden act of malice that goes unpunished by human ears but is fully known to God.
* **Stumblingblock (מִכְשׁוֹל, _mikshol'_):** Derived from the verb "to stumble" (כָּשַׁל, _kashal_), _mikshol_ refers to an obstacle, impediment, or anything that causes one to fall. While it literally denotes a physical obstruction, its broader biblical usage can extend to anything that causes another person to stumble morally, spiritually, or physically. Here, it emphasizes a deliberate, malicious act of exploitation against someone's vulnerability.
* **Fear (יָרֵא, _yare'_):** This term signifies more than mere terror; it denotes a profound reverence, awe, and respectful obedience. In the context of "fear thy God," it implies acknowledging God's omnipresence, His absolute authority, and His role as the ultimate judge. This "fear" is the foundational motivation for ethical conduct, ensuring integrity even when human witnesses are absent.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thou shalt not curse the deaf":** This prohibition addresses a particularly contemptible act. To curse someone who cannot hear you is an act of pure malice, done without fear of immediate human consequence or retaliation. It is a sin committed in secret, revealing a heart that lacks compassion and reverence for God's image in humanity. It underscores that God's law pertains not only to outward actions but also to hidden intentions and attitudes.
* **"nor put a stumblingblock before the blind":** This command condemns the malicious exploitation of another's physical vulnerability. Deliberately placing an obstacle in the path of a blind person is an act of cruelty and deceit, as the victim is unaware of the danger and cannot defend themselves. Like cursing the deaf, it is a sin that can be committed secretly, emphasizing God's omniscience and His demand for integrity even in unseen actions.
* **"but shalt fear thy God":** This is the positive command that undergirds the prohibitions. It provides the ultimate motivation for ethical behavior. The "fear of God" means living with a deep awareness of His presence, His holiness, and His justice. Because God sees and knows all, one must act righteously, not merely to avoid human punishment, but out of reverence for the divine Lawgiver who is always watching.
* **"I [am] the LORD":** This concluding divine self-attestation is a powerful declaration of God's sovereign authority. It serves as a signature, authenticating the command as a divine mandate rather than a human suggestion. It also reinforces God's omnipresence and His right to demand obedience, reminding the Israelites that the source of these laws is the very Creator and Sustainer of life, who will ultimately hold them accountable.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 19:14 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. **Merism** is evident in the specific mention of "the deaf" and "the blind," which, while literally referring to individuals with these disabilities, collectively represent all vulnerable and easily exploited members of society. This highlights God's comprehensive concern for the marginalized. The verse also utilizes **antithesis** by contrasting the malicious acts of cursing and placing obstacles with the overarching positive command to "fear thy God." This contrast emphasizes that true righteousness is not merely the absence of evil, but active reverence for God that shapes one's character and actions. Finally, the concluding **divine formula** or **self-attestation**, "I am the LORD," serves as a powerful rhetorical device. It reinforces the absolute authority and divine origin of the command, underscoring God's omnipresence and His ultimate claim on the lives of His people. This declaration transforms the ethical directive into a sacred covenant obligation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 19:14 is a cornerstone of biblical ethics, revealing God's profound character as a just and compassionate protector of the vulnerable. It underscores the theological truth that true holiness is not merely ritualistic but deeply ethical, manifesting in how one treats others, especially those least able to defend themselves. The command to "fear thy God" elevates ethical conduct from a matter of social convention to a direct response to divine authority and omnipresence. It teaches that integrity is paramount, extending even to actions committed in secret, for God sees all. This verse also foreshadows the broader biblical emphasis on justice, mercy, and the care for the marginalized, demonstrating that God's heart is always inclined towards the weak and oppressed.

* [Deuteronomy 27:18](/deuteronomy/27-18 "Deuteronomy 27:18 - Curse on Misleading the Blind")
* [Proverbs 24:17-18](/proverbs/24-17-18 "Proverbs 24:17-18 - Do Not Rejoice When Your Enemy Falls")
* [James 1:27](/james/1-27 "James 1:27 - Pure and Undefiled Religion")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Leviticus 19:14 remains profoundly relevant for believers today, challenging us to examine our attitudes and actions towards those who are vulnerable in any capacity. This includes not only individuals with physical disabilities but also those who are socially, economically, emotionally, or intellectually disadvantaged. The "cursing of the deaf" can manifest in hidden prejudices, gossip, or malicious thoughts about others that are never voiced to their face. "Putting a stumbling block before the blind" can be seen in exploiting someone's naivety, misleading them for personal gain, or creating systemic barriers that disadvantage certain groups. This verse calls us to cultivate a deep, internal integrity, knowing that our actions, even those unseen by human eyes, are fully known to God. Our motivation for compassion and justice should stem from a profound reverence for God, who is the ultimate witness and judge. We are called to actively protect, uplift, and advocate for the vulnerable, ensuring that our lives reflect the character of a just and loving God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what subtle ways might I "curse the deaf" or "put a stumblingblock before the blind" in today's context, perhaps through online interactions, hidden biases, or taking advantage of someone's lack of information?**
* **How does the "fear of God" motivate my actions and choices when I believe no one else is watching or holding me accountable?**
* **What practical steps can I take to actively protect, advocate for, or empower the vulnerable and marginalized in my community or sphere of influence?**

### FAQ
**Why does the verse specify "deaf" and "blind" instead of just "vulnerable"?**

Answer: The specific mention of "deaf" and "blind" serves as archetypal examples of individuals who are particularly susceptible to exploitation and who lack the means to perceive or defend against the harm inflicted upon them. The deaf cannot hear the curse, and the blind cannot see the obstacle. This highlights the insidious nature of the sins being prohibited – they are often committed in secret, relying on the victim's inability to detect or report the offense. By focusing on these specific vulnerabilities, the verse underscores God's concern for even the most hidden acts of malice and His demand for integrity that transcends human accountability. It emphasizes that God sees and judges all, even when human witnesses are absent.

**What does "fear thy God" mean in this context, and how does it relate to the prohibitions?**

Answer: In this context, "fear thy God" (Hebrew: _yare_) does not mean terror or dread, but rather a profound reverence, awe, and respectful obedience towards God. It is the understanding that God is omnipresent, omniscient, and the ultimate judge of all actions, both public and private. This "fear" is the foundational motivation for ethical conduct. It means that even when no human authority can see or punish the sin (like cursing the deaf or misleading the blind), one refrains from such acts because of a deep respect for God's holiness and His commands. It shifts the focus from external accountability to an internal, God-centered morality, ensuring integrity and compassion even in the most private moments.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 19:14, with its profound call to protect the vulnerable and act with integrity out of reverence for God, finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus perfectly embodied the "fear of God," always doing the Father's will and living a life of impeccable integrity, even when facing hidden malice and secret plots ([John 8:29](/john/8-29 "John 8:29 - Jesus Always Does What Pleases the Father")). Far from cursing the deaf or putting stumbling blocks before the blind, Jesus actively reversed these very conditions, demonstrating divine compassion and power. He healed the deaf, opening their ears to hear the good news ([Mark 7:31-37](/mark/7-31-37 "Mark 7:31-37 - Jesus Heals a Deaf Man")), and restored sight to the blind, enabling them to see the light of the world ([John 9:1-7](/john/9-1-7 "John 9:1-7 - Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind")). His entire ministry was characterized by a profound concern for the marginalized, the sick, and the outcast, fulfilling the spirit of the Law by actively seeking out and ministering to those whom society often overlooked or exploited ([Matthew 25:31-46](/matthew/25-31-46 "Matthew 25:31-46 - The Judgment of the Nations")). Furthermore, Jesus warned severely against causing others to stumble ([Matthew 18:6](/matthew/18-6 "Matthew 18:6 - Causing Others to Stumble")), emphasizing the profound spiritual danger of leading others astray. Through His atoning sacrifice, Christ removed the ultimate stumbling block of sin, enabling believers to live lives of genuine holiness, motivated by the Spirit to love God and neighbor, and to act with integrity and compassion in all things ([Romans 14:13](/romans/14-13 "Romans 14:13 - Do Not Cause Your Brother to Stumble")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 27:18

Cursed [be] he that maketh the blind to wander out of the way. And all the people shall say, Amen.

Leviticus 19:32

Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honour the face of the old man, and fear thy God: I [am] the LORD.

Leviticus 25:17

Ye shall not therefore oppress one another; but thou shalt fear thy God: for I [am] the LORD your God.

1 Peter 2:17

Honour all [men]. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

Romans 14:13

Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in [his] brother's way.

1 Corinthians 8:8

But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse.

1 Corinthians 8:13

Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.